Flasks made from turtle and tortoise shells were made in both Europe and Asia for centuries, some dating to the 16th and 17th centuries in European museum collections. There are no identifying markings on this example. The main body of the powder flask is tinted red and measures approximately 9 by 6 1/2 inches. The nuchal and caudal openings are sealed by silver plates fastened with screws. The former has a spout with sprung cover. The shell appears to be from a pond turtle species and is similar to the shells of the common painted turtles and red-eared sliders of North America. Provenance: The Norman R. Blank Collection

Very good with attractive aged patina on the silver, some absent screws, a minor crack in the front silver plate, bright red tint, a few minor scrapes and dings, and functional spout.